In our skin routine, we are always mentioning that Antioxidant is a must. But do we know what is it for? Antioxidants are chemical substances derived from food (vegetables and fruits), supplements, or topical products previously prepared in the lab. Their primary function is to avoid cellular oxidation or cell death that leads to aging and diseases. They protect the body from molecules that damage the body, known as free radicals. These free radicals can interfere with DNA structure causing alterations of cellular process therefore interfering with the aging process.
Free radicals can come from different sources like tobacco smoke and environmental conditions. Sadly, they are also produced by our own bodies.
Here you have the most common Antioxidants and where to find them
- Vitamin A: repairs tissue and helps improve vision, skin, and bones; found in dairy.
- Vitamin C: intervenes in collagen production and helps maintain healthy tissues and can be found in citric fruits like lime, orange, and strawberries.
- Vitamin E: also called Tocopherol, avoids red cell destruction, anemia, and heart attacks, which can be found in egg yolk, vegetable oils, and cereals.
- Flavonoids: natural pigments found in vegetables but mostly in fruits and drinks like green and black tea.
- Q10 coenzyme: can found in our diet and is in all cellular membranes, especially at the mitochondrial level, where it participates in the aerobic reaction.
- Glutathione: found in the cell’s cytoplasm and is form by amino acids like glycine, cysteine, and glutamic.
What are they suitable for?
- Enhance sunscreen effect
- Increase collagen regeneration
- Reduce hyperpigmentation
- Postpone aging signs
- Brighten the skin
What can I do to have more Antioxidants?
- For fruits and vegetables, make sure you eat around three portions daily
- Practice regular sport
- Consume dry fruits
- Avoid smoking
- Reduce fat consumption
Can I take Antioxidant supplements?
As long as you don’t abuse the consumption of supplements, you will be okay, but fruits and vegetables should be enough to obtain all the antioxidants you need.
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